Faculty are required to complete at least 4 hours per semester of professional development activities and opportunities. Mandatory training is held for all staff throughout each semester. The institution provides in-house professional development activities and funds to support faculty.
New faculty members are scheduled to attend the institution's Orientation and Training session, covering the design, navigation, and components of online courses so new faculty understand the online learning model and platform. Training content includes:
Faculty evaluations aim to measure the effectiveness of instructor performance (and identify assistance for improvement), provide reasonable criteria for reappointment, and encourage continued growth.
All active faculty undergo a performance evaluation consisting of: observations, student evaluations, syllabus and course-materials review, self-evaluation, and a performance evaluation summary. Faculty receive a copy of all original evaluation documents in a timely manner; originals are placed in the faculty member's personnel file.
Faculty are required to assess the effectiveness of their teaching by regularly reviewing course content, pedagogical methods, and student feedback, using evaluations and surveys. This assessment takes place during the last week of each semester. Faculty receive copies of their summary results for improvement plans and activities. The Director may review assessments and observe any classes offered.
At the end of each course, students complete a survey rating how well the class met expectations, the usefulness and applicability of course material, and the responsiveness and effectiveness of the professor. Surveys are used to review course curriculum and instructor performance.
Annual alumni surveys give alumni the opportunity to provide retrospective feedback on faculty and programming as it relates to their ongoing work experience. Feedback that specifically mentions a professor is considered in reviewing that professor's performance; all feedback is also considered in reviewing overall program effectiveness.